What's Happening?
Manel Abeysekera, Sri Lanka's first female career diplomat and an Honorary Fellow of Somerville, has passed away at the age of 93. Abeysekera, who read History at Somerville from 1954, joined the Ceylon Overseas Service after graduation, becoming the only
woman among eight selected candidates. She challenged traditional diplomatic norms throughout her career, serving as Third Secretary at Ceylon’s High Commission in London and later as Chargé d’Affaires in Thailand. In 1974, she returned to Sri Lanka as the first woman Chief of Protocol at the External Affairs and Defence Ministry. In this role, she was instrumental in organizing the 1976 Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Sri Lanka, which was the largest gathering of foreign Heads of State and Government ever hosted in the country. Her meticulous planning and execution of the summit earned her widespread admiration, including an invitation from the Cuban government to advise on their preparations for the subsequent NAM Summit in 1979. She authored the Foreign Ministry’s Manual of Protocol Procedure to share her expertise with future generations. Abeysekera continued her distinguished service as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand and later to Germany, with concurrent accreditation to Austria and Switzerland, before retiring in 1993 after 35 years in the Foreign Service.
Why It's Important?
Manel Abeysekera's career holds significant importance as she broke barriers for women in diplomacy, not only in Sri Lanka but also on a global scale. As the first female career diplomat in Sri Lanka, she demonstrated that intellect, tactics, and strategic ability were paramount in the field, challenging the perception of diplomacy as an exclusive 'boys' club.' Her role in organizing the 1976 Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit was pivotal, transforming Colombo into a central hub for Global South politics and showcasing Sri Lanka's organizational capabilities on an international stage. The summit, which hosted over 100 countries and numerous Heads of State, solidified Sri Lanka's diplomatic standing and influence. Abeysekera's 'unparalleled sharp-witted acumen, poise, and determination' helped reframe the global perception of Sri Lanka, as noted by retired Ambassador Sarath Dissanayake. Her contributions extended beyond individual achievements, as she actively sought to embed her experience for future generations through the Foreign Ministry’s Manual of Protocol Procedure, ensuring a lasting legacy for Sri Lankan diplomacy. Her memoir, 'Madame-Sir: Career and Dilemmas of the First Woman Diplomat in the Sri Lanka Foreign Service,' further cements her role as a trailblazing pioneer and an enduring role model.
What's Next?
While the immediate focus is on honoring Manel Abeysekera's legacy, her contributions are expected to continue influencing Sri Lankan diplomacy and international relations. The Foreign Ministry’s Manual of Protocol Procedure, which she authored, will likely remain a foundational text for aspiring diplomats, ensuring that her meticulous standards and strategic insights are passed down through generations. Her memoir, 'Madame-Sir: Career and Dilemmas of the First Woman Diplomat in the Sri Lanka Foreign Service,' will serve as an inspirational account for women entering the diplomatic field, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of a pioneering career. The historical significance of the 1976 Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, which she orchestrated, will continue to be a point of reference for Sri Lanka's role in global politics, particularly within the context of the Global South. Future diplomatic initiatives and international conferences hosted by Sri Lanka may draw lessons from the organizational excellence demonstrated during the NAM Summit under Abeysekera's leadership. Her impact as a role model for young diplomats, particularly women, is expected to endure, encouraging greater diversity and inclusion in the diplomatic service.
Beyond the Headlines
Manel Abeysekera's life and career extend beyond her diplomatic achievements, offering deeper insights into the evolving role of women in leadership and the dynamics of international relations during the Cold War era. Her ability to navigate and excel in a male-dominated field not only broke gender barriers but also redefined the very essence of diplomacy, emphasizing intellect and strategic thinking over traditional gender roles. The 1976 Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, which she meticulously organized, was more than just a logistical feat; it was a significant moment in the history of the Global South, demonstrating a collective assertion of independence from superpower blocs. Abeysekera's influence on this event underscores the critical, often unsung, contributions of individuals in shaping geopolitical landscapes. Her dedication to documenting her experiences through the Manual of Protocol Procedure and her memoir highlights a commitment to institutional knowledge and mentorship, ensuring that her pioneering spirit continues to inspire. Her story is a testament to the power of individual determination in fostering national pride and international respect, and it serves as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated public servants can have on their nation's standing in the world.
